HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) – Governor Dannel Malloy announced today legislation designed to protect the victims of domestic violence. It recognizes the instant danger someone faces once they file a restraining order and prohibits anyone who’s the subject of a restraining order from possessing a gun.

Governor Malloy said time is everything. “We know that the period of time immediately following a domestic violence victim’s application for a restraining order is one of the most volatile, and access to a firearm in that situation presents an additional, outstanding threat.” He went on to say, “If a judge determines that a victim is in enough danger that they should be granted a temporary restraining order, that victim should not have to wait until they are fully protected. This is a commonsense proposal already enacted in many states across our country, and will protect against needless tragedy. It’s not a Democrat or Republican initiative – it is, simply, a logical one.”

Right now the way things stand, after a temporary restraining order is issued, a hearing must occur before a judge can issue a permanent restraining order and prohibit firearm possession. These hearings can take weeks. The Governor’s proposal requires individuals to give up their firearms shortly after the judge’s temporary restraining order is issued, giving victims additional protection at this critical time.

The legislation will be filed along with the Governor’s package of proposals for the 2015 session of the General Assembly.

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